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If you've noticed blue or purple lines on your skin (especially your legs) you may be wondering if you have varicose or spider veins. While usually harmless, these veins are unsightly and can affect your self-esteem. If you would like to know more about varicose and spider veins, keep reading.
How Do Varicose Veins and Spider Veins Differ?
Varicose veins and spider veins are both types of veins that are visible through the skin. Varicose veins are raised and look swollen, bulging out of the skin. They are more common on legs but can appear on other parts of the body.
Spider veins are smaller and don't protrude. They appear as small red, purple, or blue lines, and they are common on the legs, chest, and face, but they can also appear on any part of the body.
What Causes Varicose and Spider Veins?
The causes of varicose and spider veins are similar. Overall, varicose and spider veins are caused by pooling blood. When a vein has been damaged too much, it can no longer make the blood properly flow, so it pools in these varicose or spider veins.
Some people find that varicose and spider veins are more common in their families, so it may be hereditary. Other people develop varicose or spider veins because they work a job that requires a lot of standing, such as a factory worker or nurse.
Obesity is another leading factor because it puts too much stress on the veins. Other causes of varicose and spider veins include hormonal changes, history of blood clots, being a woman, and getting older.
Are Varicose and Spider Veins Dangerous?
For the most part, spider veins cause little to no side effects (other than their visual appearance). In some cases, however, you may have aching, discoloration, or itching. Varicose veins are more likely to cause symptoms other than their visual appearance.
Many people with varicose veins feel that their legs are heavy and tired. They may burn, throb, or feel restless. In rare cases, ulcers and blood clots can form.
How Are Varicose and Spider Veins Treated?
There are home remedies and medical procedures designed to help varicose and spider veins. While it won't remove the varicose or spider veins, some people find relief from the uncomfortable symptoms by wearing support stockings.
Sclerotherapy, however, is a great way to remove the offending veins once and for all. During this procedure, saline is used to make the vein disappear.
Varicose and spider veins are common, but there is a simple treatment that can get rid of them. Sclerotherapy has been around for a long time, and many patients have seen amazing results. If you would like to know more, contact a provider in your area.